Internship Principal Structural Engineer Jobs in Tennessee

As a Structural Engineer for Civil & Environmental Consultants, Inc. (CEC) in our Knoxville, TN office, you’ll support projects by developing design calculations, drawings, and specifications for a wide range of structures serving commercial, institutional, industrial, utility, and residential clients across the United States. From simple retaining walls to complex industrial structures, you’ll work collaboratively with project teams, other disciplines, clients, contractors, and local government officials to deliver high-quality structural solutions while advancing your career at CEC.

At CEC, every team member is personally invested in serving our clients with integrity, delivering results that matter, and growing meaningful careers. As employee-owners, we’re accountable not just for our work, but for creating an environment that supports and challenges one another. Our people are our priority — and that’s what drives us to dig deeper, collaborate smarter, and build lasting relationships inside and outside of our company.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop structural design calculations for a variety of structural systems.
• Prepare and review structural drawings and specifications.
• Support projects ranging from simple retaining walls to complex industrial structures.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary project teams to deliver integrated design solutions.
• Coordinate with clients, contractors, and local government officials throughout project execution.
• Contribute to project delivery while supporting professional growth and career development.

Our Knoxville office, located in the heart of East Tennessee, is home to a dynamic and collaborative team of professionals. Nestled near the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, Knoxville offers a unique blend of natural beauty, vibrant culture, and a strong sense of community. The city boasts excellent schools and a thriving downtown with restaurants, entertainment, and outdoor spaces. Whether you're exploring the nearby national park, enjoying a University of Tennessee game, or connecting with a supportive professional network, Knoxville is a great place to live, work, and grow.

• Previous internship experience preferred
• Bachelor of Science degree in Civil or Structural Engineering
• Engineer in Training (EIT) registration
• Strong written and verbal communication skills for professional collaboration

Preferred Capabilities

• Familiarity with design software such as AutoCAD Civil 3D or similar tools
• Experience assisting with project documentation, calculations, and technical report preparation
• Interest in mentoring and participating in team-based engineering projects

We have experts! CEC is consistently ranked as a Top 500 Design Firm and Top 200 Environmental Firm by Engineering News-Record. We are looking for people who enjoy using their education and experience to solve difficult technical problems and work on interesting projects. You can accomplish this while working with a team of professionals who are equally motivated to provide high levels of service to our clients and to teach you along the way.

We have support! We have a variety of Employee Resource Groups, including CEC Community – focused on giving back to the communities in which we work; CEC Ignite – focused on helping professionals early in their careers to develop their pathway; CEC iDEA – focused on inclusion, diversity, equality, and acceptance; and CEC Women – focused on creating internal and external opportunities for women to network and leverage professional experience!

We care about our people! People and Culture are two of the five elements of our strategic plan. When you care about your people, they will want to grow a career with you – that is our goal. CEC offers you a small-firm work environment with large-firm opportunities. Not only will we help you develop professionally, but we will also provide an opportunity to become an owner of the firm and share in its success.

CEC offers a matching 401(k); profit sharing; a performance bonus; company stock; medical dental, and vision insurance; short and long-term disability; tuition assistance; professional development; and work-life balance.

CEC is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. We do not discriminate in recruiting, hiring or promotion based on race, color, religion, sex (including sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, transgender status), national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status or any other basis or characteristic prohibited by applicable federal, state, or local law.